Web stiffener

ABSTRACT

A one piece web stiffener that may be easily and quickly installed between the upper and lower flanges of a joist without having to slide the web stiffener in from and end of the joist is disclosed. One embodiment of the web stiffener includes a web and a pair of protruding flanges. Opposing upper and lower corners are provided at angles to enable the web stiffener to be inserted between returns formed on the upper and lower flanges of the joist and then rotated to fit relatively tightly between the upper and lower flanges of the joist. In other embodiments, one corner is radiused and an opposing corner is angled. Other embodiments include radiuses on two diagonal corners or radiused ends to enable the web stiffeners to be inserted between the upper and lower flanges of a joist and then rotated into a final web stiffening position wherein it can be attached to the joist web.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to building construction components and, more particularly, to devices for stiffening the webs of metal joists to provide reinforcement and prevent crippling of the joist web.

2. Description of the Invention Background

Traditionally, the material of choice for new residential and commercial building framing construction has been wood. However, over the years, the rising costs of lumber and labor required to install wood framing components have placed the dream of owning a newly constructed home out of the economic reach of many families. Likewise such increasing costs have contributed to the slowing of the development and advancement of urban renewal plans in many cities. Other problems such as the susceptibility to fire and insect damage, rotting, etc. are commonly associated with wood building products.

In view of the foregoing problems and shortcomings of wood construction, steel is rapidly gaining acceptance among homebuilders and homeowners alike due to its cost effectiveness, dimensional stability, noncombustibility, insect resistance, durability, high strength-to-weight ratio and recycleability. These advantages have long been recognized by the commercial construction industry wherein steel has been the material of choice for several decades.

Regardless of whether a building comprises a multistory commercial structure or a single story residence, the floor of a structure is commonly formed from a series of support members that span the distance between support structures or support walls. These support members are known in the industry as floor joists and commonly have a web portion and an upper flange and a lower flange. Short “returns” or bends are provided on the ends of the upper and lower flanges. Such floors are generally constructed with steel joists having depths that range from 8 to 14 inches (203 to 356 mm) with a steel thickness from 43 mil to 97 mil (1.1 to 2.5 mm).

The ends of the joists are coupled to C-shaped tracks referred to as rim joists that are either supported on a wall or other structure by one of their flanges or have their webs attached to the wall or structure. The joists are commonly attached to the joist rims by conventional L-shaped clips or by tabs that are integrally formed in the web of the rim joist. Web stiffeners (sometimes also called bearing stiffeners or transverse stiffeners) are used to strengthen the web of the joist member by increasing its web crippling strength and preventing the joist from crumpling due to applied loads.

FIG. 1 illustrates a prior web stiffener 10 that has a web portion 12 and two outwardly protruding flange portions 14. FIG. 2 illustrates the use of one conventional web stiffener 10 in connection with a conventional rim joist 20 and a conventional joist 30. In practice, it is usually desirable for the web stiffener 10 to extend across the depth of the web 32 of the joist 30. Such stiffeners 10 can be installed on either side of the web 32 of the joist 30 (either on the outside of the joist web 32—FIG. 1 or on the inside of the joist web 32—FIG. 3). When installed on the inside (between the lower flange 34 and the upper flange 36 of the joist 30), the web stiffener 10 is installed by sliding it in from the end of the joist 30. Such installation method can be cumbersome and time consuming. Moreover, the web stiffener 10 must be properly sized relative to the joist 30 to enable it to be installed between the joist flanges 34, 36. Consequently, such one-piece web stiffeners 10 are often installed on the outside of the joist 30 (FIG. 3). Such installation method is not always available and the web stiffener 10 lends no support to the upper flange 36 of the joist 30.

In an effort to address such installation shortcomings when installing one-piece web stiffeners on the inside of the joist, two piece web stiffeners were developed. FIG. 4 illustrates a prior two-piece web stiffener 40. When using such web stiffener 40, the stiffener 40 is inserted into position between the flanges 24 and 26 of the joist 20 and then one piece 42 of the stiffener is moved relative to the other piece 44 of the stiffener 40 until at least piece 42 abuts the lower flange 24 and the other piece 44 abuts the upper flange 26. Screws 38 are then installed through slots 46 in the pieces 42, 44 to retain the pieces 42, 44 in position. Such two-piece embodiment, while effective, is more difficult to manufacture and requires extra screws to install.

Thus, as can be appreciated from the forgoing discussion, there is a need for a simple one-piece web stiffener that can be easily and quickly installed on the inside of a floor joist between the upper and lower flanges, after the joist has already been installed, which eliminates the traditional requirement of pre-installed stiffeners.

SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a web stiffener that comprises a substantially C-shaped member that has a web portion. In one embodiment, the web portion has a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first flange protrudes outward from the first lateral side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first portion of the top edge that intersects the first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from the second lateral side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A second portion of the bottom edge that intersects the second flange extends at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the bottom edge.

Another embodiment of the subject invention comprises a support wall and a rim joist that is attached to the support wall. At least one joist is attached to the rim joist. Each joist has a joist web and upper and lower joist flanges protruding therefrom. At least one web stiffener is oriented adjacent to the joist web of a corresponding joist. The web stiffener comprises a web portion that has a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides that extend between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first flange protrudes outward from the first lateral side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first portion of the top edge that intersects the first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from the second lateral side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A second portion of the bottom edge that intersects the second flange extends at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the bottom edge.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a floor structure that includes a support wall and a first joist that has a first joist end that is supported on the support wall. The first joist has a first joist web and upper and lower first joist flanges protruding therefrom. A second joist that has a second joist end is also supported on the support wall adjacent to the first joist end. The second joist has a second joist web and upper and lower second joist flanges. At least one web stiffener is oriented adjacent to one of the first and second joist webs and is attached thereto. The web stiffener comprises a web portion that has a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first flange protrudes outward from the first lateral side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A first portion of the top edge that intersects the first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from the second lateral side of the web portion and extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A second portion of the bottom edge that intersects the second flange extends at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of the bottom edge.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web stiffener that has a web. The web has a top edge and a bottom edge. The top edge has a non-radiused portion and a radiused portion wherein the radiused portion forms an upper corner portion of the web. The bottom edge has a non-radiused portion and a radiused portion wherein the radiused portion of the lower edge forms a lower corner portion that is diagonally opposite to the upper corner portion. A first flange protrudes from a side of the web and extends from the non-radiused portion of the bottom edge to the radiused portion of the top edge. A second flange protrudes from another side of the web and extends from the non-radiused portion of the top edge to the radiused portion of the bottom edge.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web stiffener that has a web. The web has a top edge and a bottom edge and a first lateral side edge that extends between the top edge and the bottom edge. A portion of the first lateral side edge is substantially perpendicular to the top edge and another portion of the first lateral side is not substantially perpendicular to the top edge. The web further has a second lateral side edge that extends between the top and bottom edges such that a portion of the second lateral side edge is substantially perpendicular to the bottom edge and another portion of the second lateral side is not substantially perpendicular to the bottom edge. A first flange protrudes outward from a portion of the first lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the bottom edge of the web. A second flange protrudes outward from a portion of the second lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the top edge of the web.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web stiffener that has a web. The web has first and second lateral side edges and a top edge that extends in a radius between the first and second lateral sides and a bottom edge that extends in a radius between the first and second lateral sides. A first flange protrudes from the first lateral side and a second flange protrudes from the second lateral side.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web stiffener that has a web having a first edge and a second edge and a pair of lateral side edges. One side edge extends between the first edge and the second edge such that a portion of the side edge is substantially perpendicular to the second edge and another portion of the side edge is not substantially perpendicular to the first edge. Another side edge extends between the first and second edges and a portion of the another side edge is substantially perpendicular to the first edge and another portion of the another side edge is not substantially perpendicular to the second edge. A first flange protrudes outward from a portion of the first lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the second edge of the web. A second flange protrudes outward from the portion of the second lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to the first edge and wherein another portion of the other side edge extends in a radius from the second flange to the second edge of the web.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a web stiffener that includes a web. The web has a first lateral side edge and a second lateral side edge and top and bottom edges that extend between the first and second lateral side edges. The top edge has a non-radiused top edge portion disposed between a first radiused top edge portion and a second radiused top edge portion. The bottom edge has a non-radiused portion disposed between a first radiused bottom edge portion and a second radiused bottom edge portion. A first flange protrudes from the first lateral side edge and a second flange protrudes from the second lateral side edge.

Another embodiment of the present invention comprises a method for reinforcing a joist that has a web and an upper and a lower flange protruding from the web. In one embodiment, the method includes inserting a web stiffener that has a web and a top edge and a bottom edge and a pair of flanges that protrude from the web between the flanges of the joist such that the web of the web stiffener is adjacent to the web of the joist. The method also includes rotating the web stiffener such that at least a portion of the top edge of the web stiffener is closely adjacent to or in abutting contact with the upper flange of the joist and at least a portion of the bottom edge of the web stiffener is closely adjacent to or in abutting contact with the lower flange of the joist. The method also includes fastening the web of the web stiffener to the web of the joist.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying Figures, there are shown present embodiments of the invention wherein like reference numerals are employed to designate like parts and wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior one-piece web stiffener;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a conventional joist attached to a portion of a conventional rim joist and utilizing a prior web stiffener attached to an inside surface of the joist web;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a conventional joist attached to a portion of a conventional rim joist and utilizing a prior web stiffener attached to an outside surface of the joist web;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a prior two-piece web stiffener;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a web stiffener embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a partial elevational view illustrating an initial position of a web stiffener embodiment of the present invention prior to be inserted between the upper and lower returns of a joist;

FIG. 7 is an end view of the web stiffener as positioned in FIG. 6 relative to the joist and prior to insertion between the upper and lower flanges of the joist;

FIG. 8 is another partial elevational view of the joist and rim joist assembly with the web stiffener installed in its final position;

FIG. 9 is an end view of the joist and rim joist assembly and web stiffener of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of the assemblies of FIGS. 8 and 9;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a web stiffener of the present invention used to reinforce the web of a joist that spans a wall assembly;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a web stiffener of the present invention used to reinforce the web of a joist that overlaps and is attached to a second joist to form a continuous joist assembly that spans a wall assembly;

FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a top view of the web stiffener of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a top view of the web stiffener of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a top view of the web stiffener of FIG. 17; and

FIG. 19 is a front elevational view of another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings for the purposes of illustrating the present embodiments of the invention only and not for the purposes of limiting the same, FIG. 5 illustrates one embodiment of a web stiffener 100 of the present invention that is particularly well-suited for use in connection with a joist arrangement 200 of the type depicted in FIGS. 6-10. As can be seen in FIGS. 6-10, the joist arrangement 200 includes a rim joist 210 that has a web 212 and an upper flange 214 and a lower flange 216. The lower flange 216 may be supported on and attached to a top track 222 of a wall assembly 220. See FIGS. 6, 8 and 10. The reader will appreciate that rim joist 210 may be supported on and/or otherwise attached to a variety of different walls and support structures without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

An end of a conventional floor joist 230 is supported between the upper and lower flanges 214, 216 of the rim joist 210 and is attached thereto by L-shaped clip angles or tabs that are integrally formed in the web. The floor joist 230 has a web portion 232 and an upper flange 234 and a lower flange 236. The floor joist 230 is sized such that the end thereof may fit between the upper and lower flanges of the rim joist 210. An upper return portion 238 is formed on the end of the upper flange 234 and a lower return 240 is formed on the end of the lower flange 236.

As can be seen in FIG. 5, the web stiffener 100 of this embodiment is substantially C-shaped and has a web portion 102 that has a top edge 104, a bottom edge 106, a first lateral side edge 108, and a second lateral side edge 110. In one embodiment, for example, the web stiffener 100 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50 ksi, G60 galvanized steel. A first flange 112 protrudes outwardly from the first lateral side 108 at a first flange angle and a second flange 114 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side 110 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first flange 112 is substantially parallel with the second flange 114 and the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety degrees.

The first flange 112 protrudes outward from the first lateral side 108 of the web portion 102 and extends between the top edge 104 of the web portion 102 and the bottom edge 106 of the web portion. To facilitate easy insertion of the web stiffener 100 between the upper and lower flanges 234, 236 of the joist 230, a first portion 120 of the top edge 104 that intersects the first flange 112 extends at a first substantially acute angle “A” relative to a remaining portion 122 of the top edge 104. The first portion may extend from a point “B” that is centrally located along the top edge 104. Likewise, a second portion 130 of the bottom edge 106 that intersects the second flange 114 extends at a second substantially acute angle “C” relative to a remaining portion 132 of the bottom edge 106. The second portion may extend from a point “D” that is centrally located along the bottom edge 106. In one embodiment, the first acute angle “A” and the second acute angle “B” are each approximately 20 degrees. However, other angle arrangements could be employed.

Also in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the first flange 112 and the second flange 114 protrude from the web portion 102 a distance “E”. In one embodiment, distance “E” may be approximately 1.25 inches. The distance “H” is sized such that the when the web stiffener 100 is positioned as shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, the portion 122 of the top edge 104 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or abuts the bottom surface of the top flange 234 of the joist 230 and the portion 132 of the bottom edge 106 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or abuts the upper surface of the bottom flange 236 of the joist 230. The width “W” could conceivably be a variety of different lengths. See FIG. 5. The chart provided below provides examples of web stiffener loads for different sizes of joists and stiffeners that have a width “W” of 3.5 inches and 6 inches. Joist Size Gage 3.5″ Web Stiffener 6″ Web Stiffener (In.) (mils) Fy (ksi) Cond. 1 Cond. 2 Cond. 3 Cond. 1 Cond. 2 Cond. 3 8 16 (43) 33 5.3 5.8 5.6 5.9 6.4 6.2 16 (54) 33 5.4 6.1 5.9 6.0 6.8 6.5 50 5.6 6.6 6.3 6.2 7.3 6.9 14 (68) 33 5.6 6.7 6.3 6.2 7.4 7.0 50 5.8 7.5 6.9 6.4 8.3 7.6 12 (97) 33 6.0 8.4 7.5 6.7 9.3 8.3 50 6.5 10.1 8.7 7.2 11.1 9.6 10 16 (54) 33 5.4 6.0 5.9 6.0 6.7 6.5 50 5.5 6.4 6.2 6.1 7.1 6.8 14 (68) 33 5.6 6.6 6.3 6.1 7.3 6.9 50 5.7 7.3 6.8 6.3 8.1 7.5 12 (97) 33 6.0 8.2 7.4 6.6 9.1 6.2 50 6.4 9.8 8.5 7.1 10.8 9.4 12 16 (54) 33 5.4 5.9 5.8 6.0 6.6 6.4 50 5.5 6.3 6.1 6.0 7.0 6.8 14 (68) 33 5.5 6.5 6.2 6.1 7.2 6.9 50 5.7 7.1 6.7 6.3 7.9 7.4 12 (97) 33 5.9 8.0 7.3 6.5 8.9 8.1 50 6.3 9.5 8.4 6.9 10.5 9.3 14 14 (68) 33 5.5 6.4 6.1 6.1 7.0 6.8 50 5.6 6.9 6.6 6.2 7.0 7.3 12 (97) 33 5.8 7.9 7.2 6.5 6.7 8.0 50 6.2 9.2 6.3 6.8 10.2 9.1 Notes: 1) 3.5″ web stiffeners can be used with bearing widths of 3.5″-5.5″. 6″ web stiffeners can be used with bearing widths 6″ and greater. 2) Attach the web stiffener to the joist web with at least (3) #10-16 screws. Drive screws through the top, bottom, and middle pre-punched holes. 3) Web stiffeners are 12 gage (97 mil), 50 ksi with 1.25″ flanges.

To facilitate attachment of the web stiffener 100 to the web 232 of the joist 230, one or more fastener holes 150 are provided through the web portion 102. Appropriately sized fasteners 152 such as no. 10-16 screws may be inserted through the fastener holes 150 to affix the stiffener 100 to the joist web 232. In one embodiment, the lowermost hole 150 may be approximately 1.0 inch from the bottom edge 106 (distance “F”). The uppermost hole 150 may also be approximately 1.0 inch from the top edge 104. The holes 150 may be equally spaced across the height “H” of the web 102. For example, for an embodiment that has a height “H” of 14 inches, a total of seven holes 150 that are 5/32 inches in diameter and spaced at 2.0 inches on center may be employed. The lower most hole 150 may be 1.0 inch from the bottom edge 104 and the uppermost hole 150 maybe 1.0 inch from the upper edge 106.

FIGS. 6-10 illustrate one method for quickly and easily installing the web stiffener 100 without having to slide it in from a free end of the joist 230. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the web stiffener 100 is initially rotated such that the upper edge portion 120 is parallel with the lower edge of the upper flange 238 of joist 230 and the lower edge portion 130 is parallel with the upper edge of the lower flange portion 240 of the joist 230 such that the web stiffener 100 may be inserted between the upper and lower flanges 238, 240 in the direction represented by arrows “G” (FIGS. 7). After the web stiffener 100 has been inserted between the upper flange 238 and lower flange 240 and the web 102 is adjacent to the web 232 of the joist 230, it is rotated (arrow “I” in FIG. 6) to the position illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9. When in the position illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, there may be a small amount of space or “play” between the web stiffener 100 and the upper flange 234 and lower flange 236 of the joist 230. For example, in one embodiment, there may be approximately ¼ inch (6.4 mm) of “play” between the web stiffener 100 and the upper flange 234 and the lower flange 236. However, other amounts of play could be provided. Installation screws 152 or other suitable fasteners may then be installed through the holes 150 to affix the web stiffener 100 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative embodiments, the web stiffener 100 may be welded to the joist 230 or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive, etc.

FIG. 11 illustrates the use of a web stiffener 100 to reinforce the web 232 of a joist 230 that spans a wall assembly 220 that comprises a plurality of metal wall studs 224 that are attached to an upper track 222 and a bottom track (not shown). As can be seen in that Figure, the web stiffener 100 is substantially axially aligned with the underlying stud 224 such that the load from the stud 224 is axially transferred to the web stiffener 100. The web stiffener 100 may be installed and attached to the web 232 of the joist 230 in the manner described above.

FIG. 12 illustrates the use of a web stiffener 100 to reinforce the ends of two overlapping joists 230 that span a wall assembly 220 that comprises a plurality of metal wall studs 224 that are attached to an upper track 222 and a bottom track (not shown). As can be seen in that Figure, the web stiffener 100 is substantially aligned with the underlying stud 224 such that the load from the stud 224 is axially transferred to the web stiffener 100. The web stiffener 100 may be installed and attached to the web 232 of one of the joists 230 in the manner described above.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the web stiffener 300 of this embodiment has a web portion 302 that has a top edge 310, a bottom edge 320, a first lateral side edge 330, and a second lateral side edge 340. In one embodiment, for example, the web stiffener 300 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50 ksi, G60 galvanized steel. The top edge 310 of this embodiment has a radiused portion 312 and a non-radiused portion 314. The radiused portion 312 forms an upper corner portion generally designated as 316. Likewise, the bottom edge 320 has a radiused portion 322 and a non-radiused portion 324. The radiused portion 322 forms a lower corner portion, generally designated as 326, that is diagonally opposite from the upper corner portion 316 as shown in FIG. 13. In one embodiment, the radiused portions 312, 322 may each have a radius “R” of approximately 1.75 inches from the central axis of the web 302. However, other radiuses “R” and other arcuate edges may be employed. The length of edge portions 314, 324, may be approximately W/2.

In this embodiment, a first flange 350 protrudes outwardly from the first lateral side edge 330 at a first flange angle and a second flange 360 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side edge 340 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first flange 350 is substantially parallel with the second flange 360 and the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety degrees.

The first flange 350 protrudes outward from the first lateral side edge 330 of the web portion 302 and extends from the non-radiused portion 324 of the bottom edge 320 to the radiused portion 312 of the top edge 310. Likewise, the second flange 360 protrudes outward from the second lateral side edge 340 of the web portion 302 and extends from the non-radiused portion 314 of the top edge 310 to the radiused portion 322 of the bottom edge 320.

Also in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, the first flange 350 and the second flange 360 protrude from the web portion 302 a distance “E”. In one embodiment, distance “E” may be approximately 1.25 inches. The web stiffener 300 is installed in the manner described above with respect to web stiffener 100. That is, the web stiffener 300 is oriented in a position to enable it to be inserted between the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and the lower flange 236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After the web stiffener 300 has been inserted into position between the upper flange 234 and the lower flange 236 such that the web 302 is adjacent to the web 232 of the joist, it is rotated such that the portion 314 of the top edge 310 is closely adjacent (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the lower surface of the upper flange 234 and the portion 324 of the bottom edge 320 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm )) or such that it abuts the upper surface of the lower flange 236. Distance “H” is sized such that the web stiffener 300 may be inserted between the upper flange 234 and 236 of the joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described position. The width “W” could conceivably be a variety of different lengths. For example, 3.5″, 6.0″, etc. See FIG. 14.

After the stiffener 300 has been rotated into position, installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may then be installed through the holes 380 in the web 302 to affix the web stiffener 300 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative embodiments, the web stiffener 300 may be welded to the joist 230 or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive, etc.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 15, the web stiffener 400 of this embodiment has a web portion 402 that has a first edge 410, a second edge 420, a first lateral side edge 430, and a second lateral side edge 440. In one embodiment, for example, the web stiffener 400 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50 ksi, G60 galvanized steel. The first edge 410 of this embodiment has a radiused portion 412 and a non-radiused portion 414. The radiused portion 412 forms a first corner portion generally designated as 416. In one embodiment, the radiused portion 412 may have a radius “R” of approximately 1.75 inches. However, other radiuses “R” and other arcuate edges may be employed. Edge portion 414 may have a length of W/2.

In this embodiment, a first flange 450 protrudes outwardly from the first lateral side edge 430 at a first flange angle and a second flange 460 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side edge 440 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first flange 450 is substantially parallel with the second flange 460 and the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety degrees. Other flange angles could be employed.

The second edge 420 has a straight portion 422 and an angled portion 424. The angled portion 424 extends at a substantially acute angle “C” relative to the straight portion 422 of the second edge 420. The angled portion 424 may extend from a point “D” that is centrally located along the second edge 420. In one embodiment, the angle “C” is approximately 20 degrees. However, other angle arrangements could be employed.

The first flange 450 protrudes outward from the first lateral side edge 430 of the web portion 402 and extends from the radiused portion 412 of the first edge 410 to the straight portion 422 of the second edge 420. The second flange 460 protrudes from the second lateral side edge 440 of the web portion 402 and extends from the non-radiused portion 414 of the first edge 410 to the angled portion 424 of the second edge 420. Also in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16, the first flange 450 and the second flange 460 protrude from the web portion 402 a distance “E”. In one embodiment, distance “E” may be approximately 1.25 inches.

The web stiffener 400 is installed in the manner described above with respect to web stiffener 100. That is, the web stiffener 400 is oriented in a position to enable it to be inserted between the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and the lower flange 236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After the web stiffener 400 has been inserted into position between the upper flange 234 and the lower flange 236, it is rotated such that the portion 414 of the top edge 410 is closely adjacent (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the lower surface of the upper flange 234 and the portion 324 of the bottom edge 422 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the upper surface of the lower flange 236. Distance “H” is sized such that the web stiffener 400 may be inserted between the upper flange 234 and 236 of the joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described position. The width “W” could conceivably be a variety of different lengths. For example, W may be 3.5″, 6.0″, etc. See FIG. 16.

After the stiffener 400 has been rotated into position, installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may then be installed through the holes 480 in the web 402 to affix the web stiffener 400 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative embodiments, the web stiffener 400 may be welded to the joist 230 or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive, etc.

FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate yet another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 17, the web stiffener 500 of this embodiment has a web portion 502 that has an upper edge 510, a lower edge 520, a first lateral side edge 530, and a second lateral side edge 540. In one embodiment, for example, the web stiffener 500 may be fabricated from 12 gage (97 mil) 50 ksi, G60 galvanized steel. The upper edge 510 and lower edge 520 are radiused as shown. In one embodiment, the radius “R” may be approximately W/2.

In this embodiment, a first flange 550 protrudes outwardly from the first lateral side edge 530 at a first flange angle and a second flange 560 protrudes outwardly from the second lateral side edge 540 at a second flange angle. In one embodiment, the first flange 550 is substantially parallel with the second flange 560 and the first and second flange angles are approximately ninety degrees. Other flange angles could be employed. The first flange 450 protrudes outward from the first lateral side edge 530 of the web portion 502 and extends between the upper radiused end 510 and the lower radiused end 520. The second flange 460 protrudes from the second lateral side edge 540 of the web portion 502 and extends between upper end 410 and the lower end 420.

Also in the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 17 and 18, the first flange 550 and the second flange 560 protrude from the web portion 502 a distance “E”. In one embodiment, distance “E” may be approximately 1.25 inches. The distance “H” is sized such that the when the web stiffener is installed as described above, it is closely adjacent to or in abutting contact with the bottom surface of the top flange 234 of the joist 230 and the upper surface of the bottom flange 236 of the joist 230. The width “W” could conceivably be a variety of different lengths.

The web stiffener 500 is installed in the manner described above with respect to web stiffener 100. That is, the web stiffener 500 is oriented in a position to enable it to be inserted between the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and the lower flange 236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After the web stiffener 500 has been inserted into position between the upper flange 234 and the lower flange 236, it is rotated such that a portion of the top edge 510 is closely adjacent (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the lower surface of the upper flange 234 and a portion of the bottom edge 520 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm )) or such that it abuts the upper surface of the lower flange 236. Distance “H” is sized such that the web stiffener 500 may be inserted between the upper flange 234 and 236 of the joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described position.

After the stiffener 500 has been rotated into position, installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may then be installed through the holes 588 in the web 502 to affix the web stiffener 500 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative embodiments, the web stiffener 500 may be welded to the joist 230 or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive, etc.

FIG. 19 depicts another web stiffener embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the web stiffener 600 is essentially identical in construction as web stiffener 500 described above. However, in this embodiment, a non-radiused top edge portion 580 is formed on the top edge 510 as shown. Thus, in this embodiment, the top edge 510 has a non-radiused top portion 580 that is centrally disposed between a first radiused top edge portion 582 and a second radiused top edge portion 584. Radiused top edge portion 582 extends from the first lateral side edge 530 to the non-radiused top portion 580 and the radiused top edge portion 584 extends from the second lateral side edge 540 to the non-radiused top edge portion 580. Also in this embodiment, a non-radiused bottom edge portion 590 may be formed on the bottom edge 520. Thus, the bottom edge 520 has a non-radiused bottom portion 590 that is centrally disposed between a first radiused bottom edge portion 592 and a second radiused bottom edge portion 594. The first radiused bottom edge portion 592 extends from the first lateral side edge 530 to the non-radiused bottom edge portion 590 and the second radiused bottom edge portion 594 extends from the second lateral side edge 540 to the non-radiused bottom edge portion 590 as shown. In one embodiment wherein, for example “W” is approximately 3.5 inches, the upper non-radiused portion 580 may have a length “L” of approximately 1.25 inches. The lower non-radiused portion 590 may have a similar length. This embodiment may be installed in the manner described above.

In particular, the web stiffener 600 is oriented in a position to enable it to be inserted between the upper flange 234 (and upper return 238) and the lower flange 236 (and lower return 240) of the joist 230. After the web stiffener 600 has been inserted into position between the upper flange 234 and the lower flange 236, it is rotated such that the portion 580 of the top edge 510 is closely adjacent (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the lower surface of the upper flange 234 and the portion 590 of the bottom edge 520 is closely adjacent to (for example, within approximately ⅛ inch (3.2 mm)) or such that it abuts the upper surface of the lower flange 236. Distance “H” is sized such that the web stiffener 600 may be inserted between the upper flange 234 and 236 of the joist 230 and then rotated to the above-described position.

After the stiffener 600 has been rotated into position, installation screws (not shown) or other suitable fasteners may then be installed through the holes 588 in the web 502 to affix the web stiffener 600 to the web 232 of the joist 230. In alternative embodiments, the web stiffener 600 may be welded to the joist 230 or attached with other fasteners such as bolts, rivets, adhesive, etc.

The various web stiffener embodiments of the present invention may be used to prevent joist web crippling, while serving to pass loads from above to walls or bearings below. The unique design of the web stiffeners of the present invention allows the web stiffeners to be easily rotated in place between the flanges while providing a minimal amount of play therebetween without having to slide the web stiffener in from a free end of the joist and without having to use a two piece web stiffener.

The invention which is intended to be protected is not to be construed as limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. The embodiments are therefore to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Variations and changes may be made by others without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such equivalents, variations and changes which fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the claims be embraced thereby. 

1. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending between said top edge and said bottom edge; a first flange protruding outward from said first lateral side of said web and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a first portion of said top edge intersecting said first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral side of said web extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion of said bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said bottom edge.
 2. The web stiffener of claim 1 wherein said first acute angle is substantially 20 degrees and wherein said second acute angle is substantially 20 degrees.
 3. The web stiffener of claim 1 wherein said first flange protrudes outward from said first lateral side of said web portion at a first flange angle and wherein said second flange protrudes from said second lateral side of said web at a second flange angle.
 4. The web stiffener of claim 3 wherein said first and second flange angles are each substantially 90 degrees.
 5. The web stiffener of claim 1 further comprising at least one fastener hole through said web.
 6. A floor structure, comprising: a support wall; a rim joist attached to said support wall; at least one joist attached to said rim joist, each said joist having a joist web and an upper joist flange and a lower joist flange protruding therefrom; at least one web stiffener oriented adjacent to said joist web of a corresponding one of said joists, said web stiffener comprising: a web having a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending between said top edge and said bottom edge; a first flange protruding outward from said first lateral side of said web and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a first portion of said top edge intersecting said first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral side of said web portion and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion of said bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said bottom edge.
 7. The floor structure of claim 6 wherein said web of said web stiffener is attached to said joist web.
 8. The floor structure of claim 7 wherein said web of said web stiffener is attached to said joist web by at least one screw.
 9. The floor structure of claim 6 wherein said web stiffener is oriented between said upper and lower joist flanges of said corresponding one of said joists.
 10. The floor structure of claim 6 wherein said support wall comprises: an upper track; a lower track; and a plurality of studs extending between said upper and lower tracks and attached thereto.
 11. The floor structure of claim 10 wherein at least one said web stiffener is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding one of said studs.
 12. A floor structure, comprising: a support wall; a first joist having a first joist end supported on said support wall, said first joist having a first joist web and upper and lower first joist flanges protruding therefrom; a second joist having a second joist end supported on said support wall adjacent to said first joist end, said second joist having a second joist web and upper and lower second joist flanges; at least one web stiffener oriented adjacent to one of said first and second joist webs and being attached thereto, said web stiffener comprising: a web having a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending between said top edge and said bottom edge; a first flange protruding outward from said first lateral side of said web and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a first portion of said top edge intersecting said first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral side of said web and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion of said bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said bottom edge.
 13. The floor structure of claim 12 wherein said web stiffener is received between the upper and lower flanges of one of said first and second joists.
 14. The floor structure of claim 12 wherein said web stiffener is received between said upper and lower first joist flanges and is attached to said first joist web.
 15. The floor structure of claim 12 wherein said support wall comprises: an upper track; a lower track; and a plurality of studs extending between said upper and lower tracks and attached thereto.
 16. The floor structure of claim 15 wherein at least one said web stiffener is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding one of said studs.
 17. A floor structure, comprising: a support wall; a joist spanning said support wall and being supported thereon, said joist having a joist web and upper and lower joist flanges protruding therefrom; at least one web stiffener oriented adjacent to said joist web and being attached thereto, said web stiffener comprising: a web having a top edge and a bottom edge and first and second lateral sides extending between said top edge and said bottom edge; a first flange protruding outward from said first lateral side of said web and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a first portion of said top edge intersecting said first flange extends at a first substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral side of said web portion and extending between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a second portion of said bottom edge intersecting said second flange extending at a second substantially acute angle relative to a remaining portion of said bottom edge.
 18. The floor structure of claim 17 wherein said web stiffener is substantially axially aligned with said support wall.
 19. The floor structure of claim 17 wherein said web stiffener is oriented between said upper and lower joist flanges of said corresponding one of said joists.
 20. The floor structure of claim 17 wherein said support wall comprises: an upper track; a lower track; and a plurality of studs extending between said upper and lower tracks and attached thereto.
 21. The floor structure of claim 20 wherein at least one said web stiffener is substantially axially aligned with a corresponding one of said studs.
 22. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a top edge and a bottom edge, said top edge having a non-radiused portion and a radiused portion, said radiused portion forming an upper corner portion of said web, said bottom edge having a non-radiused portion and a radiused portion, said radiused portion of said lower edge forming a lower corner portion diagonally opposite from said upper corner portion; a first flange protruding from a side of said web and extending from said non-radiused portion of said bottom edge to said radiused portion of said top edge; and a second flange protruding from another side of said web and extending from said non-radiused portion of said top edge to said radiused portion of said bottom edge.
 23. The web stiffener of claim 22 further comprising at least one fastener hole through said web.
 24. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a top edge and a bottom edge and a first lateral side edge that extends between said top edge and said bottom edge wherein a portion of said first lateral side edge is substantially perpendicular to said top edge and another portion of said first lateral side is not substantially perpendicular to said top edge, said web further having a second lateral side edge extending between said top and bottom edges such that a portion of said second lateral side edge is substantially perpendicular to said bottom edge and another portion of said second lateral side is not substantially perpendicular to said bottom edge; a first flange protruding outward from a portion of said first lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to said bottom edge of said web; and a second flange protruding outward from a portion of said second lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to said top edge of said web.
 25. The web stiffener of claim 24 wherein said portion of said first lateral side that is not substantially perpendicular to said top edge extends in a first radius from said first flange to said top edge and wherein said portion of said second lateral side that is not substantially perpendicular to said bottom edge extends in a second radius from said second flange to said bottom edge of said web.
 26. The web stiffener of claim 24 wherein one of said first lateral side that is not substantially perpendicular to said top edge and said second lateral side that is not substantially perpendicular to said bottom edge is radiused.
 27. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having first and second lateral side edges and a top edge extending in a radius between said first and second lateral sides and a bottom edge extending in a radius between said first and second lateral sides.; a first flange protruding from said first lateral side; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral side.
 28. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a first edge and a second edge and a pair of lateral side edges wherein one said side edge extends between said first edge and said second edge such that a portion of said side edge is substantially perpendicular to said second edge and another portion of said side edge is not substantially perpendicular to said first edge, and wherein another said side edge extends between said first and second edges and a portion of said another side edge is substantially perpendicular to said first edge and another portion of said another side edge is not substantially perpendicular to said second edge; a first flange protruding outward from a portion of said first lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to said second edge of said web; and a second flange protruding outward from said portion of said second lateral side edge that is substantially perpendicular to said first edge and wherein said another portion of said another side edge extends in a radius from said second flange to said second edge of said web.
 29. A web stiffener, comprising: a web having a first lateral side edge and a second lateral side edge and top and bottom edges extending between said first and second lateral side edges wherein said top edge has a non-radiused top edge portion disposed between a first radiused top edge portion and a second radiused top edge portion and wherein said bottom edge has a non-radiused portion disposed between a first radiused bottom edge portion and a second radiused bottom edge portion; a first flange protruding from said first lateral side edge; and a second flange protruding from said second lateral side edge. 